2016 will be a battle for social media influence — here's where each candidate stands

With 17 major candidates and counting, 2016 presidential
candidates — and those who'll likely join them — are increasingly
looking for ways to stand out through various social media
platforms.

Gone are the days where candidates would raise money and cut
television ads. The way the American public follow campaigns and
candidates has transformed over the past two election cycles, and
social media is at the forefront.

We took a look at the influence potential of each candidate
through their various social-media platforms. We measured their
followers or subscribers on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube. Some candidates are even turning to Snapchat — a
platform that, campaign-wise, remains in its infancy as
candidates experiment with it.

Here's a look at each candidate or likely candidate's potential
social influence: